Gourmet At Your Service – presented by The Sandy Butler

In recognition of National Seafood Month during October, The Sandy Butler is serving up fresh, fine local seafood, including daily gourmet specials prepared by Chef Michael Ragusa. Both the restaurant and market feature a wide variety of seafood, including fresh, wild sea bass, black grouper, salmon, tilapia, scallops and pink shrimp.

“It’s National Seafood Month and with increased consumer focus on improving health and nutrition, what better time to think about adding more fish into your diet?” asks Jason Nelson, The Sandy Butler general manager. “Fresh fish is abundant locally, it’s easy to prepare and the numerous health benefits are well-publicized. Not to mention, seafood is a significant revenue source for our local fishing industry and restaurants.”

The National Fisheries Institute launched National Seafood Month in the 1940s as an opportunity to promote seafood. October initially was chosen because it was a slow period for seafood sales. Today, however, with modern technology, refrigeration, overnight shipping and other advances, seafood sales are strong year-round and diners have access to fresh seafood daily. National Seafood Month is an ideal opportunity to educate consumers about the benefits of seafood.

Scientific research has found that certain fats can be healthy and actually help the human body fight against cancer and heart disease. In fact, Omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood, especially salmon, can help lower blood cholesterol levels. Additionally, the Omega-3 oils found in many types of seafood have been linked to improvements in or prevention of certain types of cancer, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, arthritis, asthma, certain kinds of mental illness, depression and lupus. The American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fish per week as part of a heart-healthy diet.

“The health benefits of seafood are one of the many reasons our customers make multiple visits to our market every week,” said Nelson. “The Sandy Butler offers a wide variety of fresh, wild and farm-raised seafood in both our market and restaurant including seasonal specials, depending on supply. We also cater to special orders whenever possible.”

For more information on The Sandy Butler, visit www.sandybutlerstore.com.